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Paul Frederick Topping, 77, passed away on March 19, 2026, in Marion, IN. Born on October 1, 1948, Paul dedicated much of his life to service, both as a medic in the U.S. Army during the
Vietnam War and later at the Marion VA Hospital. Paul is remembered for his profound love for his family and his country. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971, including a crucial stint in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. He continued his commitment to service in the Army Reserves from 1975 to 1979. Following his military service, Paul worked for over 33 years at the Marion VA Hospital, where he was a beloved member of the grounds crew and engineering department.
Beyond his professional and military life, Paul's personal life was filled with joy and laughter. He loved telling dumb jokes, loved all kinds of food, enjoyed fishing and bowling, and one of the things he loved most was watching TV. He especially enjoyed watching sports and the Weather Channel. He was an avid supporter of the Marion Giants basketball team and loved going to the games.
Paul had a love for gardening and yard work, and spent many hours working outside in his yard. He loved being a dad and was very proud of his children and grandchildren.
Paul is survived by his wife of 54 years, Teresa Kay; children, Heather (John) Mullins, Summer (Chad) Roots, and Justin (Lindsey) Topping; grandchildren, Sophie, Liam, Corydon, Maddie, Frederick, Ella, and Cora; sister and brothers-in-law, Sandy Hendey (Steve Arrendale), Dwight (Cindy) Johnson, Mike (Diane) Johnson, and Jeff (Vicky) Johnson; and numerous nieces and
nephews. His beloved little doggy, Rizzo, also survives him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Irving and Esther Topping, and his in-laws, Andrew and Maxine Johnson.
A viewing will be held from 1-3:00 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the Chapel at VA Hospital in Marion, followed immediately by a Celebration of Life.
A committal service with military honors at Marion National Cemetery will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Legion.
Paul's legacy of service, laughter, and love will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.
The family would like to thank the Marion VA Hospital and the staff who took care of Paul for so many years. A special thanks goes to the loving staff in Building 172, Unit 1B who cared for him
with such compassion and were like a family to him.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul Topping, please visit our floral store.